The Merchant Girl
Contact Beth Merchant at [email protected] to be added to the 2007 Bama Board Cruise -Carnival Connections- Board to receive regular updates on this event.
Welcome to my journey!
I am 31 years old, divorced with no children and have battled with my weight my entire life. I have tried Medifast, Weight Watchers, Diet pills, and physician supervised diets only finding myself to gain the weight back within the year. I have spent a lot of money on diets. For the past 4 years I have been researching Gastric Bypass Surgery, in addition to using other methods to lose weight. It's time to send in the paperwork for a consultation appt.
As of 12/27/04, I am 32 years old and have found an employment opportunity that has insurance that will pay for wls. I will begin my new career on January 17, 2005.
2004
7/29/04 Received a phone call from Dr. Gardner's office. My initial consultation is set up for Thursday, August 5th. I'm praying that this is going to be very easy to get my insurance to approve.
8/2/04 One of my best friends called me this evening and told me that she found me on this site. She is researching and hopes to be having the surgery too. Although she will be using a different doctor and hospital, I hope that we can have it around the same time. We are so much alike, it is scary.
Also, I called my PCP today. She wants to see me before writing a recommendation letter for the wls. I have an appt with her in the morning at 9:15. I wanted to have medical records with me for the consultation on Thursday morning, however my prior PCP (Dr. Merkle in Mvallo) states that it would be 4-6 weeks for them to pull records for individuals. I will have to leave this up to Dr. Gardner's office.
8/3/04 I have had a wonderful day. My PCP wanted to see me before she would write a referral letter for the wls. I made an appt yesterday afternoon and met with her this morning. She did an EKG, blood work and is in the process of checking my cholesterol. The results should be back in 2 days and she will write the letter.
I really did not sleep much last night. For some reason the out of pocket cost to have this surgery has been on my mind alot. More good news... I called the financial counselors at Shelby. They will make payment arrangements with me over a 36 month period. (My OOP is $5000 max). I was excited to hear this. Now I can sleep tonight. My initial consult with Dr. Vince Gardner is only 39 hours away. Just to think that 1 week ago, I received the call telling me when my appt would be. Hopefully everything will keep happening so quickly.
I have to travel to FL next week with my job. This should take my mind off of things for a few days.
8/4/04 My PCP's office called to say that all lab work came back fine. However there were traces of protein in the urine which could mean a sign of diabetes. Not a good sign. I have my consultation tomorrow morning!!!!
8/5/04 I had my initial consult today with Dr. Gardner at Cahaba Valley Surgical Group. He is such an awesome Doctor. Made me feel very comfortable. I know that I have chosen the right Dr. & Surgical Group.
Now I have to wait and wait and wait. I need as many prayers you all can send my way. My insurance has an exclusion and I am afraid that they will not cover this procedure. Susie was great in answering my questions.
8/9/04 I couldn't stand it any longer. This entire weekend, I have prayed and prepared for an appeal if my insurance denied due to the exclusion. I made up my mind that I would call the insurance company this morning. I called Anthem Blue Access and explained that my surgeon was sending a letter. Would they cover the Gastric Bypass Surgery for Morbid Obese patients with a BMI of 50. I was put on hold and waited for a couple of minutes. When the girl returned she explained that if my surgeon used the diagnosis for 'Morbid Obesity', that it would not cover the surgery due to the exclusion. They have also not received the paperwork from Dr. Gardner's office yet.
I called Suzey at Dr. Gardner's office to ask what diagnosis code they used and she said that they always use 'Morbid Obesity'. She will still send in the paperwork and see how they respond. Right now I am really down. My insurance has two exclusions...
(re) Prescriptions: They will not cover 'any drug which is primarily for weight loss, EXCEPT drugs for the treatment of morbid obesity.
(re) Services: They 'do not provide benefits for services or supplies related to weight loss or treatment of obesity'.
Why would they cover drugs for the Morbid Obese, but not medically necessary surgery for the Morbid Obese?
Dear God, I need a miracle. Amen.
8/10/04 I felt like my insurance company was missing me, so I thought that I would give them another call today. (I've always heard that persistance pays off). Well, they still have not received my doctor's paperwork. Jennifer at Anthem stated, 'well you just called on 8/9 and your policy has an exclusion' (ya'll know the spill). Again, I explain the way that I felt about this being very nice about all of it. After all, today I received an e-mail back from my HR department saying that they could do nothing about the exclusion.
Tonight, I thought I would just send an e-mail out to Anthem. Here it is...
"My surgeon will be submitting a precertification request in an attempt for me to have the Gastric ByPass Surgery. You recognize 'Morbid Obesity' in the Prescription section of the Cert of Covg, but only recognize 'Obesity' in the exclusion section. Therefore, leaving treatment for the Morbid Obesity as being covered. I pray that you will consider my request for predetermination of coverage. I have also referred to the Americans Disability Act (PUBLIC LAW 101-336 JULY 26, 1990 104 STAT. 327) regarding my rights. My employer is not willing to assist me and according to my certificate of coverage You are the only one's who can make this determination. I would appreciate your consideration as this is a much needed procedure. My BMI is 50.
Thank you,"
I wanted to let them know that I was still here. It is imperative for them to know that I am not going to give up. I AM NOT GOING TO GIVE UP!!!
8/11/04 I was denied
Suzey from Dr. Gardner's office called me today to tell me that she faxed my request to the insurance yesterday and they called her right back to say that they have a flat exclusion regarding that procedure. They did not even review my paperwork for medical necessity.
I am so thankful that I have been preparing for the worst, or this news would have killed me. It's bad enough that I am depressed.
I have a lot to do in order to appeal.
Suzey did tell me that they have a self pay program. Pay $5000 upfront to the surgeon which will cover surgeon, anesthesiologist (or most of those charges); and the hospital wants $5000 up front too. The hospital balance must be paid in full within the next year. Geez.
I am still praying for a miracle with this insurance dilemma.
8/13/04 A little off of the subject... I have been traveling for business this week in the Tampa, FL area. I was able to speak with Ivy at New Port Richey Community Hospital who gave me some fabulous information in reference to dealing with my insurance company, etc. Anyway, my trip was cut short due to Hurricane Charley that came in today. I had traveled to Orlando yesterday to spend the night and was able to fly out of Orlando into Bham later this afternoon in order to beat the storm. My prayers go out to all Floridians who are toughing this one out.
Now that I am home, I will have to see if the denial letters has been sent and what they list as my rights to appeal.
8/16/04 I am still working on the appeal for Anthem Access of KY. I did get my medical records today from Bariatrics- Medifast at Brookwood & from Dr. Gardner's office (surgeon). I could not believe that in 2 months when I did Medifast, I paid over $800 on that program. OMG. That is ridiculous. And I AM NOT made out of money.
While working on my appeal over the weekend, I decided in order to support the appeal I would need to get a nutritionist & psychiatric consultation as I was advised by Jennifer last week. I don't think that it would hurt to go ahead and get a sleep study too since so many obese people have sleep apnea. I think I have insomnia though. I just do not sleep well at all.
So I called Anthem today and talked to Bridget S. Bridget asked me why I wanted the test and I explained to support medical necessity for wls. She said that they would not cover the test because they do not cover the wls. I do not have an exclusion for the test. I explained that the exclusion (see under insurance) does not exclude treatment for morbid obesity- she just argued. I explained that I was planning on fighting this by appealing even if I had to go ahead and file in civil court. She told me to go ahead and file in civil court because they were not going to pay. I asked her if I had her permission to do this- she said yes because we are not going to pay it.
So tonight, I sent an e-mail to Anthem management just in case they may feel differently about me filing this in civil court so early. I will wait to see what they have to say about it.
I have worked as a legal coordinator before in a hospital setting, so I am going to fight this to the end. Of course by then I will have high blood pressure and severe depression because of everything that they are putting me through. For those of you appealing hang in there. It's not easy, but you will NEVER KNOW until you try!
'No one who ever gave his best ever regretted it!' (Author unknown)
8/20/04 I am still in the process of gathering information for my first appeal. I received a call from my PCP, and I have a sleep study scheduled at Shelby on Oct. 1st. Anything to provide supporting evidence for this procedure. I hate to admit that I snore- but I also have a difficult time sleeping too. Last night I woke myself up from snoring. I have almost been working on this entire process for a month, and still have not received the denial letter from the insurance company. Maybe I should give them another call.
8/21/04 I am exhausted. Exhausted from working with the insurance companies. I am still waiting to get medical records together in order to file an appeal. At this point I do not know if I should keep fighting the insurance or find a job that has better insurance that will cover the procedure. I am looking at all options.
I am in FL working right now for a week- so I have lots of people I need to go help. The company I work for helps the uninsured get medical assistance. I am just under-insured and that doesn't count. Happy Day!
8/24/04 Today was just horrible. I was returning from my business trip and at the airport. A Representative from Southwest Airlines came up to me and asked me if I was aware of their policy. If you can not fit into an airplane seat and lower the armrest, you have to purchase a separate ticket. She took my boarding pass and I had to purchase a second ticket. She already knew that there were going to be plenty of seats open (40 of them to be exact)- but she still put me through the ordeal of this. I have flown 8-10 times in the past 3 months and this is the first time in my life I have ever had to be a second ticket. Southwest Airlines is not on my good list right now.
Please pray for me everyone. Depression is setting in.
8/29/04 On Friday, I received yet another secured E-mail from Anthem insurance. I am not able to receive e-mails because of the unsecured access, so I call Member Services. Upon reaching member services, I was transferred to a supervisor, Ms. Hornback. I was wondering why I had not received an official letter of denial. Ms Hornback searched the computer and told me that she did not see where a precertification request had ever been sent in to the insurance company. She put me on hold and came back to tell me that my case was one that she reviewed this morning and she forwarded it to review immediately.
According to my policy, a decision should have been rendered within 2 days that the request was submitted. My request was submitted on 8/9. Immediately my surgeon received a phone call stating 'DENIED'. Apparently, the group reviewing the request is a group of nurses, but Ms. Hornback said that it would still be denied because of the exclusion.
Yesterday, I wrote a letter to the Kentucky Dept of Insurance and cc'd Anthem BCBS.
I know that PRAYER changes things. Dealing with the insurance has made me into a person that I do not like to be. I do not like to be hard-core or a pusher, but Anthem has left me with no choice.
So for all of you out there that will pray, please pray for this review board to see that my case is medically necessary and that they approve this surgery. This fight has only taken up a month, and I am about crazy. I know that God can turn things around, and he will as long as I believe.
8/30/04 Called Anthem today at 3pm to speak with the supervisor since she had promised that she would follow up with me today. She was not at her desk, so a message was left. I pray that my patience pays off!
~~~~Dear God, Please fight this battle for me so that I can use my energy on You! A-men~~~~
9/1/04 Happy September!!! I am starting this month off on the wrong foot. I called in sick today. I woke up this morning with so much acid in my throat that I thought it was going to be a hole inside of me. I am going to a new Primary Care Physician today and hoping that she will will do a work over on any potential health conditions and support the wls as well. I still have not had any luck with Anthem however, I feel like this is going to be my month. With God ALL things are possible!
I am back from my doctor's appt with Dr. Walters. It was my first time seeing her and I really liked her alot. She has me scheduled for an abdominal ultrasound and chest x-ray tomorrow. Then next Thursday, I am scheduled for an echocardiagram.
9/2/04 I had my ultrasound and chest x-ray today. I am sure it will be a few days before I hear the results. Anthem called me this afternoon and advised that the review board had denied my original request for the gastric bypass surgery. I asked why? She said that the surgery excludes treatment of obesity. I explained to her that my diagnosis is 'Morbid Obesity'. She said it was the same and they didn't cover it. I explained again that if they weren't going to cover Morbid Obesity, they should have stated it in the exclusion. She kept arguing with me. It was pointless. I have never felt so powerless before in my life. It reminds me of that Capital One commercial where there is a boss doll that says NO.
I asked the supervisor if there was any way Anthem would cover the surgery if it was for another diagnosis such as congestive heart failure, diabetes or anything serious. She said that they would not cover it period under my policy. I could throw up. I feel like my only option is to find another job. Any of you in Alabama that knows of a good paying job with insurance benefits that covers this, please let me know.
9/3/04 I went back to work today. I still felt bad but I needed to be back. I have only called in two times in the past 5 years and I hate to do it.
Anyway, my new PCP, Dr. Walters called and left me a message today. The Gall Bladder ultrasound results came back and I had 'ALOT' of gall stones. She said 'I guess your going to get Dr. Gardner to handle that for you'. Yes!!! Oh how I am hoping that he will take this out. I have felt so bad for the past couple of months and this explains it.
It really wouldn't hurt my feelings if he went ahead and handled the rny while he was in there. My costs would probably be much cheaper. Happy Labor Day weekend!
9/5/04 Well it's official. I have received my formal DENIAL letter from Anthem. What was supposed to take them 48 hours took them 22 days. I have a 240 page appeal letter ready to send out. I am still deciding if I need an attorney at this point.
Had a wonderful time at my Dad's this weekend!!!
9/8/04 I mailed my appeal packet off to Anthem today with a HUGE PRAYER. It was 240+ pages. KY Dept of Insurance was also mailed a copy.
Tomorrow I have an echo scheduled since I have shortness of breath. I am praying that that all goes ok because I have a history with prescription diet pills.
For anyone keeping up with my story, please pause and say a prayer for my case and for the appeal coordinators reviewing it. I pray that they will overturn the denial.
I must go - so very thirsty. Later~
9/10/04 I tracked the package to the insurance company and it was received today. So according to my certificate of coverage benefits book, I should receive a decision within the next 30 days. My echo on Thursday was ok. It wasn't what I was expecting. They have to put a lot of pressure on your chest so that the probe will separate your ribs in order for it to take pictures of your heart. It took my breath many times. I can deal with pain too, so I was glad to get this test over with. I pray that the results come back with good news.
Tomorrow is 9/11. May we never forget the sacrifices that have been made for our freedom. My prayers go out to those whose loved ones met Jesus that day. I know that those who left this earth that day are greatly missed. May you and your families be at peace. May God continue to bless you and America!
9/13/04 I received a letter from Kentucky Department of Insurance today. They are going to review my policy to see if the procedure is excluded from the plan and will get back with me. I pray that they get into the technicalities of obesity vs morbid obesity.
I have been in the dumps today. Received some bad news. Keep me in your prayers AMOS buddies. PLEASE!
9/14/04 I received a BLESSING today. Thank you God! Thank you all for praying for me!
9/20/04 Wow! Hurricane Ivan was something else! I left on Wednesday (9/15) and went to my Dad's. That's when the party started! It didn't end until last night when we had the 'End of the Hurricane' Dinner. Our lights went out at 8:00 on Thursday morning and came back on yesterday about 1:30. My family got together and had a great time of fellowship. I definitely did not want to come home last night.
I did receive a letter from Anthem today stating that they received my appeal and it would take approximately 30 days to review. Still praying for a miracle.
9/21 Happy Birthday to my ex-hubby!!!
I went to see Dr. Gardner about my gall bladder and he has decided to remove it on Friday, Oct 8th. I am praying that my insurance will overturn the denial for wls so that I can have both procedures done together.
9/22 I called Anthem today and was advised that they mailed out a letter yesterday stating that my appeal had been denied. My next step is an external review. I am keeping my fingers crossed.
9/23 I received the denial letter today and Anthem is not offering me an external review. They only advised that I could request a review by the KY Dept of Insurance. That is my next step. I do not know if it will help, but I will do it. TOMORROW IS FRIDAY!!!!
9/26 THE FIRST ANNUAL BAMA BASH was so much fun! I met so many wonderful people from the Alabama Board. The hard part was people had done so wonderful on their weight loss, they didn't look like their posted picture on the site. It was so motivational to speak with the losers. I spent 4 hours talking to the pre and post-ops as well as their families. I met some great people yesterday; people that I can call FRIENDS!
9/30 Here it is the last day of September. I was really hoping that this was going to be the month that I got approved, but it just isn't time yet. What is the greatest thing that happened to you this month? I would have to say that it was the time that I got to spend with my family the weekend that Hurricane Ivan came through. We had a good time in a bad situation. I have always been close to my Dad~ however spending this time with him just reminded me just how important our parents are. And how valuable time is.
10/1 Wow!!! I came home from work today and my mail box was full of support e-mails. You all know that K-Man had something to do with it. He is such a true friend. There are so many 'good people' here on the OH site. The kind words that everyone shared with me today will never be taken for granted.
I can't wait to share the news when I am approved. The only way that I will not be approved is if it IS NOT God's will. That is the only way. I have too many prayer warriors out there fighting for me.
10/2 What a beautiful Saturday!!!! The apartments that I am living in is getting a complete outside renovation. YEAH!!! They are putting in new windows today. I am looking forward to the entire project being completed. It is going to look so great.
In the meantime, today I have e-mailed the Board of Directors and the President (Larry Glasscock) of Anthem. I found an entire list of management on Anthem's website and I will prepare next week a letter to send to every one of them.
Also, I am sending special wishes to my friend Vi in California who is battling illness right now. ~May God Bless you Vi~
10/5 I went to the Comedy Club tonight to celebrate my friend's birthday. There was a group of us and we had such a good time. They had about ten different comedians and they were all so funny. Well one got carried away with some rough language ~ but overall it was a good show. Nothing like getting away and laughing your head off every now and then.
I haven't received a response from Anthem since I sent my e-mails on Saturday. I have done so much to fight this; I am beginning to get lost in the process.
10/7/04 Tomorrow I am having gall bladder surgery at Shelby Baptist. My family is more nervous than I am. I have so much to do before I leave tomorrow morning at 5 a.m. That is so early. I know I am going to feel better though.
I called Anthem today to see if there had been any changes and there hasn't. I asked the representative several questions about what services my insurance company will cover and she said doctors visits, lab work, psych consults.... anything leading up to but not the surgery. Does that make sense?
I believe that even the insurance company is confused.
10/12 I just want to say that Dr. Gardner at Shelby is the greatest. I was at such ease with my gall bladder surgery. My case was a very difficult one. I had only planned on being an outpatient. My gall bladder was full of gall stones and was infected. It was still done laproscopic, but I had to be put in the hospital for a day. I had the dreadful drain. This was the worst part. As soon as Dr. Christopher's assistant moved the drain I was so much better.
The hospital staff at Shelby was wonderful. Any time that I needed them, they were there. I received calls from Debra in Georgia and Viola in California from the board.
I came home with my aunt who is a nurse and have been here since. She is taking such good care of me. I still have minor pain but nothing more than soreness. I am having to keep an eye on an incision for infection.
Overall I am good and look forward to being back on the board keeping up with everyone. I was very thrilled to see in a recent post that Lisa G (AL) has received her surgery date. I am also thinking of Brandy who is scheduled to have her surgery with Dr. Gardner this Friday too.
10/16 I came back home today after spending the week with my aunt. My incisions have healed up very well. I have one spot that I am having to monitor closely. I am having to catch up on the boards and read my mail. So much can happen in a week.
10/18 My nephew is walking!!!! I talked to my sister today and she said that he started taking steps (up to 12 steps). Yeah. He will be a year old next month.
I went for my follow up appointment with Dr. Gardner this afternoon. He said that my incisions have healed nicely. I am planning on returning to work on Thursday. He is such a great doctor. We spent some time talking about why insurance companies are making it so hard for others to have this surgery. He said that it seems like there is something that the Obese could do in order to make a stand. It would take a lot of us - even those that was approved for it easily. That is just something to think about.
10/20 Today is my last day off of work. Thank goodness there are only 2 days till the weekend. LOL. I had a really great day today.
As far as my appeal, I am not sure what the status is at the time. Since it is with the KY Dept of Insurance, I do not know who to call. I will give it till next week and I will call them to see if there are any changes. ~GOD IS SO GOOD~
10/24 Where do the weekends go????? I went back to work on Thursday to try to get back into the swing of things. Friday went ok too. But once Saturday started, Sunday was over! I went to my Dad's house this weekend and spent some quality time with my family. We went to a 'Stone Soup' Party and met with different people in the community. Today my Brother & Sis in law came down from North Alabama.
I am so blessed to have both of my parents. I hope that any of you that read this takes some time to let your parents know how much you love and appreciate them. Believe me - saying it means more than anything you could ever give to them.
10/27 I am still patiently waiting for a decision from the KY Department of Insurance. I have time though.
This has been a tough week. I think that the upcoming time change may have something to do with it. It gets dark so early in the evenings.
Life is still good though. Lots of good things are always happening. This weekend is the fall festival, so I will be going home for the weekend... AGAIN!
I haven't decided what my costume will be this year if I dress up. I am hoping to get some good ideas.
10/31 Well, I didn't dress up. But I did win a Wet-Dry Shop Vac at Bingo this weekend at Randolph School. Yipee! I love to win.
October is over and I still have not received an answer back from the KY Dept of Insurance, but that is ok. As long as they are investigating and considering my stance.
This month has been a very exciting one. The best thing that happened this month was I had a lot of valuable time with my Dad, my Aunt & family. Today I went to go see my sister & nephew who will be 1 year old next Saturday. I had my gall bladder surgery and got back into the swing of things rather quickly. I also had a great interview. Thank you God for ALL THINGS ~ for ALL Good things come from YOU! Thank you for the time change too. That extra hour this morning was REFRESHING!!!~
11/1 Today I visited Walter at Shelby. He is in ICU due to having to be readmitted from his wls last week. Walter was such an inspiration to me tonight. After everything he IS GOING THROUGH he said that he would still do it over again. His chance of living was just as good as dying - and he would redo it. That means that my fight is worth everything that I can put into it. If God makes the way, then I can walk it.
When I visited Walter tonight, I took him a print out of a support page from OH members. There were 115 responses in the card that I made for him. I am so excited for Walter to see the support of the great group on this board. I really hope that he will join us as soon as he is back home.
11/7 I am back home after a great weekend at my Dad's house. Yesterday we went to my sister's, her husband & baby's home. Their Baby turned 1 year old yesterday. I had a great time spending the rest of the weekend with my Dad & my aunt. I love being in the country. There are so many deer this year and I see so many of them on each of my trips home.
I am still waiting for a response from KY DOI. I know regardless of their decision that I will have this surgery if it is God's will.
~~~I have my Secret Pal~~~
11/11 Happy Veteran's Day!!! And actually today WOULD HAVE been my 3 year anniversary. I have done a lot of reflecting on the past today. I have thought about what all I have accomplished as well as the hardships that I have endured. I will always say that God is so good. He has made me a stronger person even though I still don't understand some things. I know that God has a great sense of humor and one day I will understand.
As far as the insurance fight - I am still waiting.
11/13 Today I received a gift from my secret Pal!!! Thank you Secret Pal for the inspiring card and beautiful Harvest Scarecrow candleholder. This means so much to me. The Scarecrow also has a special meaning for me.
In 1999, my best friend & her daughter was killed in a car accident by a drunk driver. About 2 weeks before she died she sent me a card thanking me for a gift and told me that 'the scarecrow' was Dorothy's best friend in the 'Wizard of OZ' and I was her scarecrow.
I have the candleholder on my mantle in my living room to enjoy throughout the fall season. Thank you so much for your loving thoughts and THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN ME!!!
11/14 ***I am an Angel!!! Friday, Mela Abaied is having surgery and I am honored to be her Angel. I am so excited for Mela and hope to serve her well.
Also, I am organizing a December Dinner for OH Members (pre-op and post-op) in and around the Birmingham area. I am so excited. This is going to be a fabulous time!!!!
11/17 Everybody PUSH (Pray Until Something Happens)! I called the KY Dept of Insurance yesterday and was advised that my case has gone to their attorney (they only have one) to review. Once the attorney makes their decision it will come back to the review dept and if they disagree with the attorney's decision they can change it. I still have faith that if wls is the right thing for me that it will happen.
I appreciate all of the prayers that you all have and will send my way. God bless You!
11/21 Wow!! I had a great weekend. I went to a Mary Kay party Friday night, watched the Auburn & Alabama football game Saturday, and went to a Christmas auction this afternoon with my family. I am so excited about Thanksgiving and being able to go home and enjoy it with my loved ones. I hope that all of you share your special day with a special someone too.
11/22 I received a gift today from my secret pal along with a beautiful Thanksgiving card. He/She sent me two colorful notepads. Each was in the shape of my initials. (Thank you Secret Pal). This is so much fun!
11/28 I had a wonderful Thanksgiving with my Family. I spent the entire weekend helping my aunt with the auxiliary's project at the Nursing Home and shopping. I am looking forward to the OH Birmingham December Dinner that is coming up this Thursday. We have 18 people coming so far. It is going to be a great night out.
11/30 I still do not have an update on the insurance status. I am waiting patiently and working on other alternatives. Please keep praying for me. Today is the last day of November and I have so much to be thankful for. This month I have talked with so many people via e-mail from the Bama Board while preparing for the Dinner coming up on Thursday night. I have really enjoyed getting involved with this great group. I can not believe that December will be here TOMORROW.
12/1 Happy December! This has been such an awesome day! First I received a job offer from a great company. It is pending a screening so I am waiting for the final thumbs up! I have had so many wonderful people praying for me.
When I arrived home tonight I had THE LETTER. It was the denial letter from the KY Dept of Insurance. Which is ok by me because I will not have this insurance for long.
God will open the door if it needs to be opened. Just be patient.
12/2 Wow! Tonight was the Birmingham Christmas Party at On The Border. We had 19 people to show up and I had a great time. I can't wait for Paperdaisydog to send out the pictures. Everyone is going to be so surprised to see how the members have changed during their journey.
Here is the link for the Birmingham Christmas Party pictures:
http://www.ofoto.com/BrowsePhotos.jsp?&collid=230803301203&page=1&sort_order=0
12/12 I am Kristy P's angel! She has received her surgery date of December 28th. I am so excited for her.
Also, January is going to be a very busy month. Jan 6th is the Bham December Dinner and January 14th I am going to Atlanta for the OH Convention. I am planning on a great time. Dolly Girl will be going with me along with some other OH Friends.
12/16 I had dinner with D M tonight at Outback. It was great to see her again. She is looking so wonderful since I had seen her at the Bama Bash Picnic.
12/22 Last night was the OH Cullman dinner. Dolores, Diane & Sandra rode with me and I had such a great time. I was able to meet so many of the legends on the board. Even Mary Mapes was there. Thanks to Stephanie for putting this together. It was so much fun.
12/27 Wow! I had a wonderful Christmas. As I left Thursday (23rd) to go home for the holidays, I checked my mail and found that I had received a job offer that I have been working on for several months. I will begin my new job on January 17th.
I spent the entire Christmas weekend with my family. I worked on my Scrapbook that I have wanted that will show my journey through this process.
Tomorrow is Kristy P's surgery at BMC Princeton. She is my angelette and I know that she is going to do wonderful.
I hope that all of you had a wonderful Christmas and have a Marvelous New Year. Lots of love and hugs to all of you!
12/28 Kristy P had her surgery today at Princeton. I had dinner with one of the most exciting and fun people I have met, Pruetty Chic tonight. We visited Kristy afterward. Kristy was doing well and hopes to be coming home in 2 days.
Pruetty Chic, Tina I and Dollie Girl are changing our reservations for Atlanta (OH Convention). We will be staying both Friday and Saturday night now. We are looking forward to a great time.
12/31 Thanks everyone for a fabulous year! 2005 is going to be even better!
1/1/05 I have started out 2005 by spending it with my Dad and Aunt. This month I have the Birmingham Dinner, The OH Convention in Atlanta, I start my new job, and I am going to Glenn & Brenda's for Dinner on Jan 24. This board has definitely given me a social life.
Happy 2005 everyone! I definitely believe my surgery is just around the corner.
1/4 Only 2 more days until the January Dinner in Birmingham. There are close to 30 people coming and I am so excited. There have been a lot of new faces on the board in the past week. I can't wait to meet all of them at our activities.
I have the day off today so I am planning for Thursday and spending time with my family. I start my new job in less than 2 weeks. That is when my life changes.
1/10 We had an impressive number of members at the Birmingham Dinner on Thursday Night. There was a total of 36 people there. Playing the White Elephant Gift Exchange was a lot of fun. We had several new members. Between all of the OH Members there, there was a loss of 2076 pounds total. UNBELIEVABLE!
1/15 Today was the convention in Atlanta. It has been so much fun. There were over 150 people here. I roomed with Dollie-Girl, Pruetty Chic & Tina I. Can't wait to share the pics.
1/18 My new job is going GREAT! I have so many new things to learn. It is overwhelming right now. I will just have to take one step at a time. It is all going to be great once I understand all of it.
1/19 HERE I GO!!!!
I am now closer than I've ever been to getting gastric bypass. I am in the process of electing my insurance for this year. Out of respect for my new employer (which is absolutely marvelous), I had planned on waiting about 6 months before I had the surgery - regardless of insurance requirements.
Here are my new requirements in order to have wls:
-Letter of Medical Necessity including a proposed CPT code, height & weight, BMI, and a list of previous diets & programs attempted.
-My health history or physical with a listing of comorbidities
-Office notes for past year
-detailed notes of 12 month supervised weight loss
I am so excited that this is finally here, regardless of how long I have to wait.
Also - special thanks to Dakota Mom & Pruetty Chic for the clothes. The 26-28's will really come in handy with my new job. Hugs to you!
1/24 It has been such a busy week. On top of starting a new job (which is fabulous), I have had a family Christmas Party (in January) and had an OH Dinner at Glenn's house last evening. There were over 40 people there and they have a beautiful home. They did so much to prepare for everyone.
I called the insurance company today regarding the requirements for wls and was told that the 12 month supervised diet had to be done in the past 24 months and had to have detail documentation by the nurse practitioner, DO, or Physician. I have made a call to my doctor to see what she has documented in my records since she has counseled me on my weight. I am getting so excited!
1/27 I had a follow up appointment with my doctor and we talked more about my supervised diet. I explained my insurance and she just loves the fact that I have to try to be a FAILURE in order to get the wls - and this is even after an adult life of morbid obesity. My motto - "You have to be a FAILURE in order to be a LOSER". Folks, this is exactly why we have to have a psych consult for this surgery.
The best thing that happened to me this month: Starting my new job on The Farm :)
2/2/05 Happy February! Life has been coming at me very fast. I have the Birmingham Dinner tomorrow night at O'Charley's and am expecting about 20 people. That is about the number I had at the first dinner. Pruetty Chic is helping me out with some of the details.
My new job is going great. I am loving every bit of it. I have a lot of studying to do -- Education never goes to waste.
2/7 Life is still beautiful. I have been very busy though. Since I have been on a diet for the past couple of months- I knew that I needed to increase my activity. Well Friday, I pushed myself too far. I walked around the building and took a flight of stairs. My breathing got really bad. I was wheezing and grasping for whatever air I could find. Very embarrased - and hoped that I could make it to the bathroom before passing out. I went to the doctor yesterday and have now been referred to a pulmonologist. I will go there in about 2 weeks. This was really scary for me. I don't want to get SICK! This diet is not working well- I am only down just a couple of pounds. I know the lack of exercise doesn't help any, but I am trying.
I am looking forward to my miracle.
2/15 This has been such a busy month. In the midst of my supervised diet, I have been to the doctor and found out that I have asthma and am being treated for that. The steroids is causing me to expand and my feet swell. However - I can breathe and God is good.
Tomorrow I have my SC Adjustors Licensing test. I am in the midst of studying for it tonight. Sunday, Dixie Dawn, Dixie Chic, Pruetty Chic and I went to Oak Mtn to scope out a spot of the 2nd annual Bama Bash. OMG- we found the most beautiful place. We have about 6 weeks to get ready for this - but it will all be worth it. I finally get to publicly speak to my pal. And I get to thank the person that has been spoiling me the past 1/2 year.
Our March dinner is going to be at the Cheesecake Factory at the Summit. I hope that everyone is excited about that. Hope you are having a fabulous February!
2/22 If you are reading this, I hope that you have a few extra minutes to write some letters. Please help those of us who have not had the surgery yet. The fight with the insurance companies is critical. I need your help!
THIS IS NOT A JOKE - we are at risk of losing the right to have this surgery at all.
George W Bush
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500
Governor Bob Riley
State Capitol
600 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36130
Lieutenant Governor Lucy Baxley
11 South Union Street, Ste 725
Montgomery, AL 36130
The Honorable Jeff Sessions
United States Senate
335 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510-0104
The Honorable Richard C Shelby
United States Senate
110 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510-0103
Alabama Dept of Insurance
PO Box 303351
Montgomery, AL 36130-3351
My insurance:
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
300 East Randolph Street
Chicago, Illinois 60601-5099
(312) 653-6000
Please Write one letter.... Send it to each one of these people. Think of how many people you will be helping with just $2.59 in postage.
2/28 Today is the last day of the month. It has been so busy. Diane, Lindy, Dixie & I started planning for the 2nd Annual Bama Bash at Oak Mtn State Park. I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to all of the Members who were so generous with giving door prizes and donations for this event. It is going to be so much fun!
I have been back for my 1st completed month diet regimen. I had lost 2 lbs which isn't too good. I know that I have been swollen a lot this month. I can't blame it on the asthma medicine because the doctor says that it is non-steroidal. Being diagnosed with asthma has eased my fears with the shortness of breath that I have been experiencing.
I am getting ready for the March dinner here in Birmingham on 3/3 which will be held at the Cheesecake Factory this month. Then Saturday (thanks to Amanda Sawyer) there will be a Plus Size Yard Sale held by MCE patients. There is so much going on and I am having a blast! God Bless!
3/1/05 I PASSED!!!! I am so excited. On Feb 16th, I had to take the SC Adjusters Exam. I found out today that I passed! Praise God - HE is SOOO good!
3/3 Tonight was the Birmingham Dinner and there was a great turn out. When I got home, I had a surprise....
My new insurance has a 12 month required failed diet and exercise regimen. I wrote a letter to the DOI in Illinois. Today, I received a response back.
Because my insurance is self-insured, it is up to my employer to approve or deny my surgery. I have written a letter to them to see if they would consider approving this surgery before the 12 months is up.
Please continue to pray for me. This could be a miracle!!!!
3/7 I received an answer from my employer. They stand behind BCBS's guidelines. So as it stands right now, I still have to have all of the requirements completed before I can move forward. I am going to see my surgeon on 3/24 to have him submit all of the paperwork so that I can get in writing what needs to be turned in for approval that I do not already have.
Another day toward my goal.
3/15 I feel like I am putting on weight and not even trying to.... I weighed today and it shows that I have gained 10 lbs in the past month. My doctor is going to kill me. I have been walking what amount that I can but my weight is still going up.
I fell this morning as I was walking downstairs in my apt and hurt my tailbone badly. I am just glad that I did not break anything.
I did get a letter back from the Gov of Alabama who has referred us to a person at the Dpt of Ins. I will keep writing letters to try to help those of you that are not self-insured to get this sooner.
3/21 It has been a rough day. I feel like my brain and my feet were going forward, but there was a rope around my waist holding me back. Of course it has been a Monday. While some things get difficult at times - I know that "this too shall pass".
My prayers go out to Beth George & JoniJustJoni who is also going through this approval process. I love you girls - Hang in there. We will make it together!
3/22 There has been so much going on that I just can not keep up. Since I have been working two jobs, I found that I was not being any help to the group planning the Bama Bash. I did not feel like it was appropriate for me to receive any of the glory for the hard work that the two ladies in Opelika have done. Unfortunately, because of this and other reasons I had to pull away from my obligations. Kudos to thosewho are working & contributing to the Bama Bash to make it a huge success.
3/28 I had a follow-up review appt with Dr. Gardner on last Thursday, 3/23. Our visit was just like the first - reviewing the film and discussing the surgery and the complications. I explained to him the new prerequisites that the insurance requires. I still need to get a psych eval. I am a little confused about where I stand at this stage in the game. After going to my 2nd full month supervised diet visit, I was just ready to get back to work and forget all of the hooplah. I know that in God's timing, it will be.
4/6 Happy Birthday Dollie-Girl!!!!
April is flying past me and I have yet to post. It is a very busy week. Saturday is the infamous Bama Bash. Lindy and Dixie have worked SUPER HARD in making this a special event for all of us. All of you have donated and given unselfishly to help them with the planning. Now it is time for us all to go and enjoy. I can not wait for the Secret Pal reveal!!!
As far as an update on me... I have a sleep study scheduled for May 1. Still waiting and fighting.
4/9 Yesterday was the BEST BAMA BASH!!! My Dad and Aunt came up from the country and I was able to spend the day with my closest friends and their families (Diane and Dolores). I had been looking forward to the secret pal reveal ever since it started. I was the secret pal to Dolores. When I found out, I began the monthly Bham dinners and she came to the first one. She, Diane and I became very close. We went to the OH Atlanta Convention and roomed together. We went to support groups together, shopped together, dined together and even visited each others homes. I carefully had to plot where I would send her gifts from because we share the same zip code. Fortunately I was able to send the gifts from my Dad's address. There was even a couple of times that she visited my home (ex. Valentines Day) and I had the gift laying on the table. It was a spur of the moment visit and she admired the gift. So I was able to do some more shopping. Our friendship became so close I had to be careful what I had lying around. LOL. There are so many fun moments... for example when we were in our hotel room in Atlanta, I had the hotel to bring a gift up to the room for Dolores... she was so excited to know that her secret pal was there in Atlanta. Little did she know her secret pal was also in the room with her.
Thursday night at her birthday dinner she mentioned an Azalea, and how she thought it would be a great final Super Pal gift. Fortunately we were all going to Wal-mart after dinner. She rode with me there, then Diane was to take her home. While she and Diane shopped, I tracked across the Wal-mart parking lot at 9pm on a hunt for a beautiful azalea plant; paid for it and put it in my car. We finished our shopping and I was off free and clear without her seeing it, right? WRONG! When I got home, I found that someone had been in my apartment, so I called Diane and she said she was on her way back... with DOLORES!!! When they got there, I was in my car and when I got out, Dolores saw the plant. She kept saying how beautiful it was. I asked her if she saw it before when she was in the car with me. She said, No, she did not pay attention. LOL. I thought I had been caught. She asked me where I got it.. I said work :). She believed it.
Ok - so maybe I am off the hook. When we get in my apt I show her a gift that I got my secret pal (Gail), but told her it was a gift that I got for the girl that I give to (fake name). She believes it....
At the bash, I wish I could have had video taped (which I had planned to do) her reaction when I said her name. It was priceless. I am so glad this part is over, now I can be 100% upfront with my friend and no more secrets. LOL
What is even more funny... my Dad asked Dolores if she had any idea... Dolores said "No, I trusted Beth."
Dolores, You can trust me...just not when it comes to me being your secret pal. Love you!
4/24 Thanks to those of you who have kept in touch with me via e-mail the past couple of weeks... Dollie-Girl, Diane, Elle, Amanda Sawyer, Tegan Angel & Susan SP. Your kind words and thoughts really mean a lot to me. I have been very busy and continue to work the two jobs. I have tried to stay away from trouble and lately that appears to be the board. I will be back when things get back to the purpose and reason for the board. I am presently waiting for the insurance to make a decision regarding the surgery based on the information that I sent to my employer last month. My surgeon has also sent in a packet. It will definitely be worth the wait.
5/5 I submitted a 12 month diet that I did in 2001 to BCBS of IL (which is one of their requirements) and they denied stating that it was not enough documentation - although the doctor did notate the weight that I lost and that I was exercising (walking) it was still not enough. I can appeal and my health insurance is an ERISA plan.
I went for a sleep study Sunday night and went back for the results today. I do have Mild-Moderate obstructive sleep apnea. I hope that these records may assist in the appeal that I send in to the insurance.
5/20 Wow! I am going to have to do better than this. I haven't posted in a while. I am getting back on my band wagon. I went for my 4th month weigh in and lost 4 lbs this month. I have my psych eval with Craig Boden at Freeman's Office on Tuesday (Yeah)!!! Once I get the records from this, my sleep study, my proof of asthma and sleep apnea and my weight records for the past 4 months to go along with all of my previous weight loss history- I am going to submit my appeal to State Farm and pray for a miracle. I know that it can happen.
5/22 On Tuesday, I will have my psych consult with Craig Boden at Dr. Freeman's office. Once I get the results from that I will prepare my appeal to State Farm/ BCBS of IL. I will continue to keep my eyes on the prize....:)
6/12 Happy June! Sorry it has been so long since I updated. My Dad and I went to Bloomington IL this past week for my job where I attended a class.
While there, I handled what I set out to do. I presented my 200 page appeal to my employer. In the next 60 days, My employer will reply with their decision.
I know that there have been a lot of prayers going up for me. I feel that I presented my case well and know that from here out EVERYTHING is in God's Hands!
I had a lot of time to talk to my Dad this past week about the surgery. He even helped me get my appeal ready. We talked about the risks and what would happen in the worst case scenario.
He knows how bad I want this as well as need this.
Please keep the prayers flowing. I only want this if it is the Lord's will. With God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE.
6/21 It has been such a busy weekend! My nephew Jake was involved in an ATV accident on Friday afternoon at 1 and was taken to Children's. On Friday, he had 2 brain surgeries and they were not expecting him to live. After the second surgery, and inserting the trach and putting him on a vent, his condition improved and they had a third surgery on Saturday morning. Since Saturday, Jake has made a miraculous recovery. Today they removed the paralytic meds and he began to respond to pain. In a couple of days that will reduce the sedatives and begin to wake him up.
If you would like to e-mail Jake your thoughts or prayers, you can send them to: [email protected]
Thanks everyone for your prayers!
6/29 Jake is going home tomorrow. He has had a miraculous recovery and will be put into the Childrens Hospital 'Book of Miracles'.
I haven't heard anything on my appeal yet, but I am still praying for a miracle in that too.
7/1 Happy July!!!!
I hand-delivered my appeal to my employer in Illinois on June 10 because it requires that under the ERISA plan. I was prepared to hire Gary Viscio because I have seen his many successes with winning. However I was advised against this because it might affect my new job which I took because it had insurance to cover WLS.
Today I called to check on the status and I was told that they needed the 12 mo supervised diet in order to complete the appeal and make a decision.
What does it take? I even typed up a spreadsheet showing each date during that 12 mo period that I went to the doctor. I entered in my weight and the reason for the visit on the spread sheet. I had medical records for every one of these visits to correspond to what was on the spreadsheet.
In addition, I had medical records included since 1993 on every diet I had been on. 95% of my medical records since 1993 was weight loss attempts.
What does it take to get BCBS and the employers to READ the documentation? I told the lady at BCBS today that it will be an embarrassment to them when I take the next step in taking this to court and I go to present to the court that they had the 12 mo supervised diet all along.
I am just very frustrated at this point and feel that the Insurance companies are not requiring the diet for health reasons. I have proven beyond a doubt that I have had a weight problem my entire life.
I will continue to move forward and have FAITH!!! It will be worth it in the end.
7/12 I called the benefits office today and was advised that my appeal goes before the Formal Appeal Committee next week and I should hear the decision shortly afterward. I have worked so hard in making my case, and there have been A LOT of prayers said for me and with me. I am hoping that next week I will have wonderful news to share.
7/14 Last week I paid a visit to the doctor that I used to see when I was married. During 2001 I was on a one year supervised diet and BCBS had recommended that I visit the doctor to get him to provide more supporting documentation because the medical records did not seem to provide enough.
This letter brought humor to my evening. I know that I will be approved for this surgery and it will ONLY be by the Grace of God.
I thought I would share this letter with you all....
"To whom it may concern:
I am writing this letter at the request of Beth (last name), a patient I have not seen since February 22, 2002. She asked that I detail my attempts to assist her lose weight between January 2001 to January 2002. During this time, I prescribed phentermine intermittently along with suggesting appropriate diet and exercise. She initially weighted 304 lbs and lost down to 227 lbs. I understand that my records regarding her treatment have been made available for review. I hope this information has been useful.
Thank you,"
Doctors signature/End of letter
Also I just received my EOB for this visit which cost $73. I think when this is over, I could write a book.
7/19 It's Tuesday. This week I am waiting to hear about a promotional opportunity at my current job and the decision of the appeal that I hand delivered. I sent an e-mail to our benefits department this afternoon asking for a status. I am keeping my eyes on the Prize. God watches out for me and I know that if it is His will - this will be. I can't wait to let you all know the update.
7/20 I found out that the appeal committee meets tomorrow. Benefits told me that they should be in touch with me the first of next week. I will be in touch with them on Friday. (Praying)
7/26 My employer and insurance company will not disclose their decision over the telephone. I will have to wait for the letter to come to me by mail. So I patiently wait, claiming my approval.
8/1 I received my letter from my employer this evening. They agree with BCBS and denied my request to have the gastric bypass surgery. Reason being that my 12 month failed diet was completed in 2001-2002 and they require it to be covered the the past 24 months.
It was my prayer that I not be approved for this surgery if it was not God's will for me right now. If it is not in His timing, I do not want it. God has answered and I will accept his answer.
I know that He heard all of your prayers and this is the right thing for me right now.
Fortunately, I am on my seventh month of a current 12 month diet and in January I can submit this to BCBS again.
9/6 There hasn't been much going on since my appeal was not overturned.
11/18 I am about to complete my 10th month on the 12 month diet. I will be making that visit next week. I am really looking forward to being able to resubmit my paperwork to BCBS in January. I sat down with my boss today and explained that I was planning on having the surgery and prepared her for a 2 week absence in January/February. I am really glad that all of the holidays are here and maybe that will keep my mind occupied until the time comes.
11/29 I finally made it to my 10 month weight check yesterday. Due to the holidays and illness I had a hard time getting into see the doctor.
She diagnosed me with plantar fasciitis (sp?). I have been having a lot of pain in my feet. I guess I need to find some better shoes and do some exercises.
Thursday night is the Birmingham Christmas Dinner for the folks on the board. I am looking forward to it. We has so much fun last year. I can not wait to see how everyone has changed.
Less than 60 days until my life changes. Yippee!
12/6 OMG!!!! It is December. Can we start the countdown?
I started my 12 month supervised diet on 1/27/05. I still have to go to my 11th month visit this month. In January, I will go to my 12th month visit and I will have to attend another consultation with Dr. Gardner.
I guess if I want to do things to a T- then I need to schedule my final appt on 1/27/06 with Dr. Stevenson and Dr. Gardner. That way I can give them a FULL 12 month failed supervised diet as they require.
--- So about 52 days until I can resubmit to the Insurance Company. With the holidays, I know that this will pass by really fast.
12/14 I am working on my paperwork to send to BCBS next month. I will be going to my 11th doctors visit on Friday at 2:30. I might just have to bump up that 12th visit from 1/27 to 1/16. It is only 11 days difference.
It is hard because at some points I am really scared of being denied again, and others I feel so positive that I will be approved this time.
My birthday is on Saturday and I am meeting up with my dear friend, Pruetty Chic, for some lunch and shopping.
12/18 I had a wonderful Birthday. Yesterday, Diane (Pruetty Chic) came to see me. She had really outdone herself. She had bought a gift for me for each hour that we were able to spend together. I had such a hard day on Friday and was a bit down in the dumps. Just being able to get out and spend time with her was the best gift of all. Sometimes the business of life takes our attention away from the people that do so much for us.
On Friday, I did go to my 11th month (12th visit) of the 12 required visits. I had gained weight this past month and that really was hard as I have tried to decrease portion sizes and steered toward some of the boxed foods (Lean Cuisine, etc).
My doctor has been so understanding and is so frustrated with the 12 month diet - just as much as I am. And I know she is tired of seeing me.
Christmas is now just one week away. I have 98% of my shopping done (I hope).
12/26 I hope that everyone has had a wonderful Christmas. I really had a nice time with my family and even went to some of the After-Christmas sales today. One of the good things is that my family celebrates Christmas around the first of the year. So it is always fun shopping at the after-Christmas sales.
I am one month away from my deadline. Time has been flying by very fast. Where is that little jumping man when I need him? :jump: ?
12/27 Today I received an e-mail from Kristine who also works at the same company that I do. She received notification today from BCBS of IL that she had been approved after doing her 12 month diet.
I am just so excited. This has given me so much hope - especially after EVERYTHING that I have been through the past year and a half.
I moved my surgery consult up and it is scheduled for tomorrow. I will be going to my 13th weigh in on Jan 2 and I will resubmit my paperwork.
12/28 On Monday, Jan 2 - I will go for my 13th visit (12th full month) of dieting as required. I did go to the surgeon consult (for the 3rd time) today. These are the last two steps before I resubmit my paperwork. On Tuesday, the mail will send all of my documentation to Dr. Gardner's office so that Susie can attach them with the surgeon's notes from today. They will then be sent to BCBS of IL for review.
Today I emotionally broke down. I don't know why? Maybe it is the fact that I am just repeating myself over and over again and afraid of the outcome OR maybe it is the fact that I know that I am nearing the end of this long journey.
Dr. Gardner did talk more today about doing the surgery open rather than lap as he normally has in the past. Needless to say, it scared me and I am praying that he will be able to do this laproscopically.
The next few weeks are going to be long for me. They will probably feel longer than the past year has seemed. Nevertheless, I am nearing the end of this long battle. I thank every single one of you for your continued support, e-mails and prayers.
12/31 It's the last day of 2005! This has been a very good year for me with my new job. I am very happy in my position.
I started on Jan 17, 2005 and was promoted August 17, 2005. I have had the opportunity to travel to Bloomington, IL two times this year for training purposes and that has been a lot of fun. I have also been able to take Industry Education Classes to further my education and you definitely can not beat that. They are a GREAT COMPANY to work for and I have met many nice people.
I wish that I was more excited about the surgery approval process during the year - but I am closer than I have ever been right now so I am not discouraged.
I believe that 200
